Establishing paternity is a family law matter that will have a major effect on the parties involved.
There are several reasons why paternity is established. They include:
· When a father wants to have custody or visitation rights to his child
· A mother wishes to receive child support
· A mother wants to disestablish paternity so the father has no legal rights to the child
Before the State of California can start the paternity process, an allegation of paternity must be submitted by the custodial parent – usually the mother, the alleged father or the child. Establishing paternity is done by genetic testing. Once the results are determined, the father signs a Certificate of Parentage, making him responsible for child support and health care for his child.
If you are looking for a definitive answer regarding paternity of your child, contact an experienced Orange County Family Law attorney who will give you the help and support you need in achieving a positive outcome.
